Holi (English pronunciation: /holi/) (Sanskrit: ) is a spring festival also known as the

festival of colours or the festival of love.[3][4] It is an ancient Hindu religious festival which has
become popular with non-Hindus in many parts of South Asia, as well as people of other
communities outside Asia.[5]

It is primarily observed in India, Nepal, and other regions of the world with significant
populations of Hindus or people of Indian origin.

History : There is a symbolic legend to explain why holi is well celebrated as a colour fest.
The word "Holi" originates from "Holika", the evil sister of demon king Hiranyakashipu. King
Hiranyakashipu had earned a boon.. Hiranyakashipu's own son, Prahlada,[14] however, disagreed and
got a punishment. Finally, Holika - Prahlada's evil aunt - tricked him into sitting on a pyre with her.[1]
Holika was wearing a cloak. the cloak flew from Holika and encased Prahlada. Holika burned. The day
after Holika bonfire is celebrated as Holi.

Step :

1. Prepare Holika pyre for bonfire

Days before the festival people start gathering wood and combustible materials for the
bonfire in parks, community centers, near temples and other open spaces.

2. Holika dahan
On the eve of Holi, typically at or after sunset, the pyre is lit, signifying Holika Dahan.
The ritual symbolises the victory of good over evil
3. Play with colours
the day is for partying and pure enjoyment. Children and youth groups friend or stranger, rich or
poor, man or woman, children and elders form armed with dry colours, coloured solution,
means to fill and spray others.

4. The after party

After a day of play with colours, people clean up, wash and bathe, sober and dress up in
the evening and greet friends and relatives by visiting them and exchange sweets

The festival has many purposes; most prominently, it celebrates the beginning of Spring. In 17th
century literature, it was identified as a festival that celebrated agriculture, commemorated good
spring harvests and the fertile land.[5] Hindus believe it is a time of enjoying spring's abundant
colours and saying farewell to winter. Holi festivities mark the beginning of new year to many
Hindus, as well as a justification to reset and renew ruptured relationships, end conflicts and
accumulated emotional impurities from past.[12][21]

It also has a religious purpose, symbolically signified by the legend of Holika.